What does a Radiology Nurse do? – Tasks and Work Environment
Radiology nurses are responsible for performing medical imaging diagnostics, utilizing advanced technical equipment to create images of patients' internal organs and structures. The work includes preparing patients, handling radiography equipment, and ensuring that examinations are conducted with high patient safety and minimal radiation exposure. In addition to technical tasks, patient contact, collaboration with doctors and other healthcare staff, and documentation of examination results are involved. The work environment is often clinical, with work in hospitals, radiology departments, or specialist clinics, where the pace can vary between calm periods and urgent interventions.
Salary Development Over Time
The salary development for radiology nurses has shown some variation over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,500 SEK per month, which increased to 43 000 SEK during 2023, corresponding to an increase of about 8.9%. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a slight decrease as the average salary dropped to 42 400 SEK, a reduction of approximately 1.4%. This variation may be due to changes in collective bargaining, regional differences, and supply and demand in the job market. Despite the recent decline, the profession has had steady salary growth over time, reflecting both the need for specialist competence and the reported national shortage of staff.
Radiology Nurse Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 42 400 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (female, municipal sector)
- Highest salary: 58,200 SEK/month (male, state sector)
- Hourly wage (average): 255 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (women 42 200 SEK, men 43 200 SEK)
- Regional differences: Vary locally, but generally higher salaries in metropolitan areas
Education and Qualifications
To work as a radiology nurse, a three-year university degree leading to a professional qualification and license is required. The education combines theoretical studies in medicine and technology with practical clinical training. After graduation, a license from the National Board of Health and Welfare is necessary to work within Swedish healthcare.
- Formal degree: Radiology Nursing Program, 3 years (180 ECTS)
- License: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare
- Practical training: Included in clinical placements (VFU)
- Prerequisites: General eligibility and specific knowledge in biology, chemistry, and physics
- Special courses: Opportunities for further training in areas such as CT or mammography
Radiology nurses often have the opportunity to specialize in various imaging diagnostic fields, such as MRI, CT, or interventional radiology. This breadth opens up for varied tasks and career paths, making the profession particularly dynamic and developable.
Common Benefits and Compensation
In addition to base salary, benefits such as shift allowances for evening, night, and weekend work, extra vacation days, wellness contributions, and opportunities for further training are often offered. Occupational pension schemes and insurance are also common, along with access to staff healthcare and sometimes subsidized meals or public transport.
Challenges and Competition
The job market for radiology nurses is characterized by high demand and a national shortage of trained personnel. This means low competition for jobs, but the workload can be high, especially in emergency care and larger hospitals. Rapid technological development requires continuous skills development. Challenges may also include shift work, radiation exposure, and the need to handle stressful situations while maintaining quality and accuracy.
Tips for Aspiring Radiology Nurses
To succeed as a radiology nurse, it is good to combine technical interest with strong empathy. Precision is crucial, as the work requires careful handling of advanced equipment and ensuring image quality. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with patients and colleagues, especially in stressful situations. Flexibility and resilience are important since workload can vary and quick interventions are sometimes needed. Being solution-oriented and willing to continuously develop within new technologies provides good career advancement opportunities. A professional attitude and sense of responsibility are also central to creating safety for patients and contributing to a secure care environment.
Key Facts about Radiology Nurses
- Education level: University degree, license required
- Salary range: 36,100–58,200 SEK/month
- Work environment: Hospitals, radiology departments, and specialist clinics
- Demand: Large national shortage, 375 vacant positions
- Gender-based salary difference: Women earn 98% of what men do
Career Paths and Future Prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a radiology nurse can choose to specialize in areas such as CT, MRI, or interventional radiology. Other career options include roles as section leaders, trainers, or further education in advanced imaging and functional medicine. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecast, the job market is very good, with high demand and a shortage of radiology nurses nationwide. Over five years, demand is expected to remain stable, providing good opportunities for employment and career development in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions about Radiology Nurses
- What does a Radiology Nurse earn?
- The average salary is 42 400 SEK per month.
- What education is required to become a radiology nurse?
- A three-year university degree in radiology nursing and a license from the National Board of Health and Welfare are required.
- Are there salary differences between women and men?
- Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do within the profession.
- What is the job market like for radiology nurses?
- The job market is very good with a significant shortage of trained staff and 375 vacant positions nationwide.
- What opportunities for further training are available?
- There are opportunities for further education and specialization within various imaging diagnostic fields.
- Where can one work as a radiology nurse?
- Most work in hospitals, radiology departments, or specialist clinics.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for a radiology nurse?
- The highest salary is 58,200 SEK and the lowest 36,100 SEK per month.
